California Peer Run Warm Line Refunding Update
Response to the 2025-2026 California State Budget
MHASF runs the California Peer Run Warm Line, CalHOPE Warm Line, and the California Spanish Warm Line (La Línea de Apoyo Emocional de California). This June’s final state budget left the warm lines with $4.2 million, which is less than one-third of the funding needed to operate for one full year.
Mark Salazar, Chief Executive Officer of the Mental Health Association of San Francisco, issued the following statement, as the 2025-26 state budget takes effect for California’s new fiscal year:
“We appreciate lawmakers’ efforts to fully fund California’s warm lines. While the $4.2 million approved is significantly less than what is needed to keep up with growing demand, we are grateful for the continued state investment. This allows us to keep offering our services in some capacity. Though the impact on our ability to serve Californians is still unknown at this point, we are working to cut costs, including reductions in staff hours. We ask our callers to be patient, as it may take longer to reach a counselor. It’s unfortunate to have to make such moves after we had a record-breaking month in May that saw 41,378 contacts, but we are exploring other partnerships that will help us further our mission to advance mental health wellness for all.”
Testimonials that Speak to Our Impact
In order to keep our callers anonymity, we have refrained from using real names. Nevertheless, the stories and impact are real.
Be a Lifeline:
Make Your Donation Count
If you have ever experienced mental health challenges, you know what a difference support can make. The Mental Health Association of San Francisco relies on the radical generosity of kind-hearted individuals like you to make mental health services accessible to our community. Help us strengthen our commitment to breaking down stigma and uplifting well-being for Californians who want to be supported. Your donation will make a life-changing difference.
